MySQL Discussion

[blu-5a1Jt6qxUNc at public.gmane.org (Tom Metro)]

markw-FJ05HQ0HCKaWd6l5hS35sQ at public.gmane.org wrote:
> Read some detailed text about database theory that discusses the various
> algorithms for accessing data that does not focus on any single database.
> Get a grip on the whole of the subject.

I'm fairly familiar with the underlying general database principles (and 
gained my foundation in databases on servers predating MySQL). The 
information I lack is the extent to which MySQL, and the likely 
alternatives, adhere to those principles. (I'd like to find a resource 
more convenient than sifting through the source code myself.)

For example, I know why transactions are useful, but I also know that 
for some situations atomic operations will do the job just as well, but 
this doesn't scale to situations where complexity requires executing 
multiple statements. Knowing general principles only goes so far in this 
situation, as it depends on the specific implementation details as well 
as the nature of the problem being solved.

Most information sources echo opinions, and it's easy to find them on 
both sides. What's needed is an expert analysis of the actual 
implementation, and an opinion given in the context of a specific type 
of problem.

Also, many of the comparative differences come down to performance, 
rather than functionality. Take your discussion of how MySQL handles 
locking. It has long been criticized for for using table locking, but 
only real-world application benchmarks prove whether that poses a 
noticeable performance hit.


> I have had MySQL developers look in wonder as I reduce their queries to
> sub-selects and functions, that improve the performance by at least an
> order of magnitude. Saying "I didn't know you can do that." My response is
> "You can on most real SQL databases." (but can't on MySQL)

This is indicative of an obsolete criticism, as MySQL currently supports 
both. I understand why this comes about, as no one would want to spend 
time keeping current on a tool they didn't use, but it greatly detracts 
from your points when they're aimed at obsolete versions.

  -Tom

-- 
Tom Metro
Venture Logic, Newton, MA, USA
"Enterprise solutions through open source."
Professional Profile: http://tmetro.venturelogic.com/

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